Coast Guard observes National Safe Boating Week in Alaska

May 13th, 2015 · Comments Off on Coast Guard observes National Safe Boating Week in Alaska

KODIAK, Alaska — In recognition of National Safe Boating Week 2015, the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary across Alaska are encouraging and promoting safe boating practices to protect lives at sea.

The National Safe Boating Week campaign is a public outreach effort held annually during the week leading up to Memorial Day weekend and is designed to help reduce boating fatalities and accidents by generating awareness on the waterways in the Last Frontier.

1. Wear a lifejacket; they save lives. In Alaska, boaters are required to have one Coast Guard approved life jacket for each person aboard their vessel and they must be in serviceable condition. Persons 13 years of age and younger are required by law to wear a life jacket at all times when in an open boat, on the deck of a boat or when waterskiing.

2. File a float plan before you get underway detailing your trip to aid rescuers in the event you are overdue. Sample float plans can be found on the Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety website.

3. Take multiple forms of communication devices and extra batteries and chargers. Always remember VHF-FM radio is the primary communications network for the maritime boating community. Enabling the Digital Selective Calling features on your VHF-FM marine radio can broadcast your location and information to every boat within range in an emergency. Also consider a personal emergency beacon and ensure it is registered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

4. Check all required safety equipment to be sure it is in good working order. Vessel safety checks by the Coast Guard Auxiliary are free. Trained examiners help boaters review their equipment and give advice about how to improve safety. Vessels that pass the exam may display a safety decal and may be eligible for insurance discounts.

5. Check the weather. Be sure to look at the immediate weather forecast as well as the extended forecast; weather can change in Alaska in a matter of hours. Be prepared for it. The National Weather Service offers local and statewide current and extended marine weather forecasts on their website, which are broadcasted on VHF marine band radios.

6. Dress for the water temperature. Though the air may be warming up, the water is still cold and does not rise above low 50s even at the height of summer. Wet suits and dry suits offer protection against hypothermia in the event of immersion in the water. Thermal protection against the effects of cold water shock can save your life.

7. Boat sober. Never boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“Boating safety remains a top priority for the Coast Guard across the state of Alaska,” said Mike Folkerts, recreational boating safety specialist for the 17th Coast Guard District. File a float plan with friends or family and always carry a means of communication; preferably a marine VHF radio. And most importantly, be sure to wear your life jackets.”